U8 Microevolution vs Macroevolution

Page 1: Mechanism for Microevolution

• Microevolution refers to small evolutionary changes within a species over time.

• What or who determines which traits are favorable?

  • Environmental conditions, competition, and reproductive success influence favorable traits.

  • The ability of an organism to survive and reproduce determines trait favorability.

• Types of Selection:

  Natural Selection

  • The process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

  • Example: The peppered moth, where darker moths became more common in industrial areas due to pollution darkening the trees they rested on.

  Sexual Selection

  • A form of natural selection where certain traits increase an individual's chance of mating.

  • Example: Peacocks with larger, more colorful tails attract more mates.

  Artificial Selection

  • Human intervention in breeding to select for desired traits.

  • Example: Dog breeding, where humans select for traits like size, coat color, and temperament.